The Psychology program at College of DuPage teaches students how to apply psychological principles to every day life through the study of human and animal behavior. Many students take psychology courses to major in psychology, for general interest or to fulfill general education requirements.
COD offers an Associate in Arts degree in psychology for students who are interested in transferring to a four-year institution. Courses are transferable to all Illinois colleges and universities, as well as most institutions nationwide based on Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI) standards. You can also secure an internship in the community and take advantage of service learning options.
Determine Your Path
Explore a range of psychology courses that can lead to a bachelor's degree, career enhancement or fulfill your personal achievements.
You want to attend a credible college that stands out from the rest. At COD, you'll discover:
- Dedicated instructors with years of professional experience.
- Affordable programs to help you achieve success without creating overwhelming debt or draining a savings account.
- Small class sizes that ensure you receive personalized attention.
- A variety of courses offered in different formats, including honors, independent study, online and hybrid.
- An opportunity to learn more about the field of psychology through Psi Beta Honor Society.
Psychology Transfer Pathway, A.A.
What is a Transfer Pathway?
A transfer pathway represents a typical course schedule/sequence for a student planning to complete the A.A. degree within two years, then transfer and major in a specific discipline. A transfer pathway is not institution-specific.
It is important to understand that the pathway provided in the adjacent tab is just one possible combination of classes by which to complete an A.A. and prepare for transfer in your chosen area of study. Other course combinations and sequences can work, too. It is strongly recommended that students work directly and frequently with a COD academic counselor/advisor, a COD faculty advisor, and academic counselors/advisors at potential transfer schools, to develop and execute a plan that works best for them.
COD Stories
"There is a lack of resources for the African and African American communities regarding mental health, and I want to bring forth research to help these people navigate their mental health." - Roselynne Njau
Roselynn's COD StoryCOD Stories
“I have learned so much from both my academic program and my campus involvement. I have learned the values of growth and leadership, as well as the value of guiding others through their own potential.” - Luis Medina
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"At COD, there are countless opportunities for you to build new connections and network with like-minded students." - Poonam Rahman
Poonam's COD StoryGet Started Today
The first step to getting started in Psychology is to apply for admission.
Academic and Career Pathways give you a roadmap to achieving your career goals. Follow a pathway based on your degree or certificate that outlines which classes you need to take and when so you graduate on time or move on to the next phase in your career.
- Demonstrate familiarity with major concepts, theoretical perspectives, empirical findings, and historical trends.
- Understand and apply basic research methods in psychology.
- Understand and apply psychological principles to personal, social, and organizational issues.
- Respect and use critical and creative thinking, skeptical inquiry, and the scientific approach to solving problems.
- Demonstrate effective communication skills (oral or written) for different purposes.
College of DuPage partners with several four-year institutions to help students seamlessly complete a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Students can connect with Transfer Services for personalized guidance on transfer opportunities.
For more information about Transfer Pathways, visit the College of DuPage Catalog. The pathway outlines a typical two-year course plan for completing an AA or AS degree before transferring to a four-year program. Course requirements vary by institution, so consult your faculty or academic advisor for specific guidance.
Articulation Agreements
College of DuPage maintains transfer agreements with many colleges and universities to ensure a smooth transition toward a bachelor’s degree. These agreements often include a defined course sequence. Students should regularly meet with a faculty member or the Counseling and Advising office to stay on track.Elmhurst University
North Central College
- North Central College, AA to BA in Neuroscience
- North Central College, AS to BS in Neuroscience
- North Central College, AA to BA in Psychology
- North Central College, AS to BS in Psychology
Transfer Guides
Beyond articulation agreements and guaranteed admission programs, College of DuPage courses transfer to many other institutions. Transfer Guides help students select COD courses that meet prerequisites for specific majors and include details such as contact information, major requirements, general education requirements, and transfer policies.
Career Information
Explore careers based on your interest, location and salary range or view top occupations by income.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to your frequently asked questions regarding the Psychology program.
Psychologists study the human mind and human behavior. Research psychologists investigate the physical, cognitive, emotional, or social aspects of human behavior. Psychologists in health services fields provide mental health care in hospitals, clinics, schools or private settings. Psychologists employed in applied settings, such as business, industry, government or nonprofit organizations, provide training, conduct research, design organizational systems and act as advocates for psychology.
No, students who apply and are admitted to College of DuPage can enroll directly into psychology classes.
Some psychology courses have prerequisites that must be completed before registration. Meet with an advisor if you have questions about course or transfer requirements.
No, psychology courses are an integral component of most occupational and pre-professional programs. COD offers more than 100 sections of its core Introduction to Psychology class and more than 400 total sections of psychology courses each year to fit your schedule. Courses completed at COD may be fully transferable, based on Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI) standards.
Contact a psychology faculty member for scheduling and transfer guidance and information. You can also visit the course catalog to read psychology course descriptions.
